Ahmed Muizzu has been appointed by President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom as the first Prosecutor General of the Maldives. The nomination of Muizzu was submitted to the People's Majlis last week for scrutiny and approval according to the Constitution. Nomination for the post requires two third majority of the Majlis before being appointed. Muizzu received 41 votes in favour which is larger than the required majority.
Muizzu took oath of Prosecutor General on Thursday before senior Judge Ahmed Faiz Hussain who is in charge of Judiciary. Later President Gayoom delivered him the letter of appointment for post. Muizu is one of the prominent lawyers of the country who has earned high respect for his professional ability and dignity. He is a staunch advocator of good governance and accountability. He has courageously fought against corruption. Though he is a relative of President Gayoom, Muizzu has very often criticized the government citing several cases of high corruption and abuse. He was one of the two MPs who voted against the amended Constitution adopted in 1998.
Majlis has earlier approved a monthly salary of Mrf 42,500 and allowance of Mrf 15,000 which is in the range of government ministers. Being a highly popular lawyer, Muizzu has suggested a salary in the range of Mrf. 60,000 to Mrf 70,000 if he were to leave his private practice and take the history making job. Muizzu would be earning much more than what he is going to be paid by the government, but he has accepted the job for the love of serving the country while accepting it as a huge challenge.
Responsibilities and powers of Prosecutor General include, supervising the prosecution of all criminal offences in the Maldives, to consider and assess evidence presented by investigating bodies to determine whether charges should be pursued, and to institute and conduct criminal proceedings against any person before any court in respect of any alleged offence.
The Constitution states Prosecutor General is independent and impartial and he shall not be under the direction or control of any person or authority in carrying out his responsibilities and exercise his powers. He shall carry out his responsibilities and exercise his powers without fear, favor or prejudice subject only to the general policy directives of the Attorney General and on the basis of fairness, transparency, and accountability.
During the Majlis debate on Muizzu's nomination many members said he is eminently qualified for the post in view of his very illustrious record of service professionalism and integrity. They expressed confidence in Muizzu and said they hope Muizzu's appointment would greatly serve the purpose and objectives of an independent Prosecutor General. But one member expressed concern about his relationship with the President.
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